Skip to content
Chicago Tribune
PUBLISHED: | UPDATED:
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

When I look in the mirror first thing in the morning, I want there to be as little light as possible. I frighten easily. And you know what they say about broken mirrors and bad luck.

However, I seem to be alone in this desire for darkness. Some men need to be clean shaven, and have to have as much light as they can to remove every little bit of stubble.

Obviously, achieving the perfect natural look versus looking like Mimi on “The Drew Carey Show” involves proper lighting.

Here are ideas on bathroom lighting from Osram Sylvania:

– For best results, you want diffused, softer light in the bathroom.

– Use lighter colors on walls and accents because they reflect light and let it bounce around the room.

– Using the correct fluorescent will create a better reflection off surfaces and help you see yourself in true light.

– Avoid “Hollywood” lights above a mirror because they cast horrible shadows. Instead, light both sides of the mirror evenly for a balanced spread of light and for improved visibility while applying makeup.

– If using vanity strips with globe lights, choose frosted instead of clear.

– For fans of reading in the bathtub, an enclosed luminaire at least six feet above the water line offers good reading light and ensures safety.